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Although China's latest exports numbers raised some doubts, Asian markets took them to heart, with share prices rising across the region Wednesday. The Nikkei rose 0.74% to 14,285.69, the Hang Seng added 0.86% to 23,244.35, the Kospi was up 0.11% to 1,956.45 and the S&P/ASX jumped 1.09% to 5,199.80.

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The return of the Shanghai market after a long holiday was enough to lift investor spirits across Asian markets Tuesday, despite growing concern over a U.S. default. An HSBC survey showing continued expansion in China's manufacturing and service sectors also relieved some anxieties.

Indications of continued central bank stimulus and strong manufacturing reports globally lifted Asian shares Friday and throughout last week. On Friday, the Nikkei surged 3.29%, closing at 14,466.16, the Hang Seng rose 0.46% to close up 22,190.97, the Kospi rose 0.14% to close at 1,923.38, and the S&P/ASX climbed 1.09% to 5,116.80.

China reported a 14.7% rise in exports for April, including a 57.2% jump in shipments to Hong Kong while exports to the U.S. and Europe were down. The sudden and surprising improvement prompted suspicions about the veracity of the numbers, which may obscure capital inflows into China counted as export payments.

Overseas investments by individual Chinese should be limited to no more than US$150,000 or 50% of their portfolio, economist Li Daokui suggests. China's central bank said earlier this year that it was preparing a plan for individual overseas investment, something that could relieve upward pressure on the yuan. Li said he favors such a plan but cautioned that limits are needed in the early stages to protect investors.